The recent floods and landslides in Nepal have caused widespread devastation, leading to the tragic loss of at least 170 people who have died (Nepal’s Floods and Landslides Claim 170 Lives; Search Continues for Missing). The heavy rains and landslides wreaking havoc are continuing. More than 42 people are missing; the situation remains critical in many parts of the country in the past few days, officials said.
Nepal police said rescue teams are working tirelessly in the hardest-hit regions across the nation. The relentless rain is causing challenges for rescue operations with muddy and unstable terrain, making it difficult for teams to access remote areas. Despite these challenges, rescue efforts to find survivors are ongoing.
Many districts across Nepal, including Sindhupalchok, Dolakha, and Ramechhap, have experienced the worst impacts of the floods and landslides. The rescue team recovered 14 bodies from two buses headed to Kathmandu. Rivers have overflowed, destroying homes, infrastructure, and farmland.
Nepal authorities have declared an emergency in many of these regions, & governments are working with armed forces, police, and volunteers to assist in the rescue and relief operations.
Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs spokesperson, Rishiram Pokharel, said the government has enlisted the help of all security agencies for search and rescue. Nepal Army has airlifted 162 people from across the country.
Urgent Need for Aid:
As the death toll rises, there is an urgent need for humanitarian aid. Many people are unable to access, such as clean drinking water, food, and medical supplies. Relief organizations, local and international, are stepping in to assist in Nepal.
National Highways:
Pokharel stated that national highways have been blocked since Saturday due to landslides. Efforts are currently underway to clear the obstructed roads. The crucial Prithvi Highway, which connects Kathmandu to the rest of the country, has been blocked by landslides, AP reports added.
Climate Change Worsening Floods:
Experts have pointed out that Nepal’s vulnerability to natural disasters like floods and landslides is worsening due to climate change. The frequency and intensity of rain have increased in recent years.
The government of Nepal, with international partners, is working to implement long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of these disasters, including improved flood warning systems, infrastructure development, and reforestation efforts.
One thought on “Nepal’s Floods and Landslides Claim 170 Lives; Search Continues for Missing”